Head Cook / Kitchen Lead Job Summary

We are looking for a reliable, experienced, and hands-on Head Cook / Kitchen Lead to take the lead in our kitchen and help ensure that each shift runs smoothly.

This role is about leading the BOH team, keeping everyone organized, making sure communication is clear, and ensuring that all kitchen tasks are completed properly and on time.

The Head Cook will work closely with the Head Chef and management team to maintain food quality, food safety, cleanliness, preparation standards, and a positive team environment.

Key Responsibilities

- Take the lead in the kitchen and provide direction to the BOH team during each shift.
- Make sure everyone knows their responsibilities and that tasks are being completed.
- Ensure all prep is completed and the kitchen is properly prepared for service.
- Keep communication clear between the kitchen team, Head Chef, FOH, and management.
- Make sure orders are prepared correctly, consistently, and in a timely manner.
- Maintain high standards for food quality, presentation, portioning, and consistency.
- Ensure all food safety, sanitation, cleaning, and food-handling procedures are followed.
- Make sure the kitchen stays clean, organized, stocked, and ready for service.
- Monitor inventory and communicate when supplies need to be ordered or restocked.
- Help reduce food waste and maintain proper portion control.
- Support and train kitchen staff when needed.
- Lead by example and help create a respectful, positive, and productive kitchen workplace.
- Address issues as they arise and communicate them to the Head Chef or management.
- Work directly with the Head Chef to ensure recipes,



procedures, and kitchen standards are being followed.
- Step in and assist with cooking and preparation wherever needed.
- Make sure opening, closing, cleaning, prep, and other daily kitchen responsibilities are completed.

What We're Looking For We are looking for someone who can take ownership of the kitchen during their shift.

You should be someone who:

- Has previous experience leading or supervising a kitchen team.
- Is organized, dependable, and able to stay calm during busy service.
- Communicates clearly and effectively.
- Is comfortable giving direction and holding the team accountable.
- Understands proper food preparation and kitchen procedures.
- Takes food safety, cleanliness, and organization seriously.
- Can identify problems and take action to resolve them.
- Works well with the Head Chef, FOH, and management.
- Is willing to be hands-on and help wherever needed.
- Takes pride in making sure the kitchen is running properly from start to finish.

The Role The Head Cook / Kitchen Lead is the go-to leader in the kitchen during service. Your job is to make sure the team is organized, communication is strong, prep is done, food is being prepared properly, standards are being followed, and the kitchen is running efficiently.

You will work with the Head Chef — not replace the Head Chef — to make sure the BOH team is supported and the kitchen operates at a high standard every day.

If you are a strong team leader who takes pride in a well-run kitchen and enjoys working in a fast-paced hospitality environment, we want to hear from you.

Pay: From $20.00 per hour

Work Location: In person

📌 Head Cook (Toronto)
🏢 PIGEON CAFÉ
📍 Toronto